Destino Brasil – Ipanema

Ipanema may well be Rio de Janeiro’s most iconic beach. Also made famous by the bossa nova classic, “The Girl from Ipanema,” this must-see destination can be found in the South Zone of the city known as Zona Sul.

Between Leblon and Arpoador, Ipanema is a tourist friendly beach, where one can easily wander the streets, enjoy fresh fruit at the farmer’s market and even participate in a game of volleyball. Lifeguard towers, or postos, divide the beach into segments. Some locations attract beautiful Carioca regulars (the locals of Rio), making certain postos more popular than others.

Scroll down for a glimpse into the relaxing Ipanema beach culture. Images courtesy of Photographer Denise Leão.